The Chatham School Affair

Some books lend themselves to discussion, and Thomas H. Cook’s writing in “The Chatham School Affair” is perfectly suited to book-club group readings, particularly those attracted by presentation as well as plot. Classified alternately as mystery and suspense, Cook’s fluid style fits comfortably with contemporary literature, and the haunting prose faultlessly complements his wind-blown Massachusetts coastal setting.
Narrated by an aging Henry Griswald, the story begins with his recollection on a new teacher’s arrival in 1926 at the boy’s school at which his father is headmaster. The young woman is both beautiful and mysterious, and the glamorous notions and exotic tales she includes as part of her daily art lessons quickly captivate young Henry.
It’s clear, in his recounting of the events of his youth, that something devastating has occurred in Chatham, an event dramatic enough to alter forever the lives of the townspeople, and – even decades later – to incite casual references to those involved.
It isn’t clear though, exactly what happened so many years ago.
Cook easily maneuvers between the present and memories of Henry’s days as a student of Elizabeth Channing, and his portraits of the characters are so compelling that the intimation of tragedy seems almost incidental. As though revealed by ghosts flitting through the story, the cataclysmic event remains a mystery, and glimpses of the aftereffects provide the only clues as to what transpired that fateful day at Black Pond.
Even when Cook finally identifies his tragedy, he withholds enough cards to trump the initial surprise. The ending is startling and unconventional, and undoubtedly part of the reason “The Chatham School Affair” won awards from the mystery community.
It’s a first rate novel, one that will create longtime fans of Thomas H. Cook, whose latest effort – “The Cloud of Unknowing” – is set for a January release.